122.75 Norwegian Wood

Scotch Malt Whisky Society cask 122.75, Norwegian Wood, is a single cask single malt from Loch Lomond, released under the Society's code 122 (Croftengea). It was distilled on 24 October 2013, spent seven years in an ex-bourbon barrel and was then transferred to a second-fill hogshead with a #4+ char for the remainder of its 10 years. Bottled at a cask strength of 60.8% ABV, the outturn was 224 bottles. The Society lists it under its Spicy & sweet flavour profile; the Tasting Panel's notes lean towards waffles with berry jam and brown cheese on the nose and savoury, spiced custard with dark chocolate on the palate. Like all SMWS whiskies it is bottled at natural strength with no chill filtration.

Nose: Heart-shaped waffles with raspberry jam and Norwegian brown cheese on varnished wood; water brings chocolate mousse, mixed berries and pistachio

Palate: Rich, savoury custard with vanilla, cumin and coriander beside dark hot chocolate; water adds dark chocolate limes and tiramisu

Finish: Coffee with a chocolate cream liqueur

Serve: Neat, then with a few drops of water to open up the aromas; at full cask strength it rewards patience.